How Can We Ensure Safety and Compliance While Implementing Night Shifts for Women in Himachal Pradesh?

On August 26, 2025, the labour department of Himachal Pradesh officially allowed women to work night shifts (7 PM–7 AM) in shops and commercial establishments, amending the state's Shops & Establishments Act. This change requires compliance with the Maternity Benefit Act, POSH Act, and quarterly electronic reporting of women night-shift workers. The reform aims to balance safety, opportunity, and compliance.

For women seeking higher earnings or flexible hours, this is liberation—and also a leap of faith. Will safety protocols really protect them? Will office security be maintained when streetlights are off? For HR, it’s an emotional contract: we’re granting access with promise, but institutions must earn trust through action, not just assent. Safety, supervision, and empathy must wrap around empowerment, or trust crumbles fast.

Night-shift inclusion isn’t just job design—it triggers multiple legal mandates. HR must ensure POSH-trained ICCs on night shifts, maternity leave, safe transit, documentation and accurate electronic reporting, and adjusted shift rosters. It's essential to co-create safety with women—not simply enforce it as a formality. Blocking oversight invites liability; but building genuine norms makes empowerment stick.

If your team wanted to start night shifts, what one safety tweak would show you that the management truly cares?

Are empowering policies like this meaningful if safety isn’t lived—in uniforms, transport, and cameras?

Implementing night shifts for women is a significant step towards gender equality in the workplace. However, it comes with its own set of challenges, particularly concerning safety and compliance. Here are some practical steps that can be taken to ensure safety and compliance:

1. Safety Measures: Implement strict safety measures like secure transportation for women employees, well-lit premises, and security personnel. Regular safety audits can ensure these measures are effectively implemented.

2. POSH Training: Ensure that all employees, especially those on night shifts, are trained on the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act. This will help create a safe and respectful work environment.

3. Maternity Benefits: Adhere to the Maternity Benefit Act, which includes provisions for maternity leave, nursing breaks, and creche facilities. This will support women employees and encourage them to continue working.

4. Electronic Reporting: Maintain accurate electronic reporting of women night-shift workers. This will help in tracking their work hours and ensuring compliance with labor laws.

5. Employee Engagement: Involve women employees in the decision-making process related to safety measures. This will help in building trust and ensuring that the measures are practical and effective.

Remember, the key to successful implementation of night shifts for women lies in balancing empowerment with safety and compliance. It's not just about formulating policies but also about living them in every aspect of the organization.